The Indiana Pacers face a challenging offseason following their defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals, compounded by the severe injury to star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season due to an Achilles tear. Amid this uncertainty, the future of center Myles Turner, a key player hitting free agency, has become a central focus in discussions about the team’s direction.
Before Haliburton’s injury, the Pacers were reportedly prepared to pay the luxury tax to retain their core roster, including Turner. Although free agency introduces the possibility of roster changes, Turner remains widely expected to re-sign with Indiana. His presence is considered critical for the team, especially given the limited options in the frontcourt.
Assessment of Myles Turner’s Contract Prospects with Indiana
NBA analyst Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report forecasted the free agency landscape, highlighting Turner’s likely return to the Pacers. Buckley noted that while the team might need to adjust salaries elsewhere, Haliburton’s injury is unlikely to prompt Turner’s departure from the only NBA franchise he has played for. He projected Turner would secure a five-year contract worth approximately $155 million.
“If re-signing Turner remains the aim, then it’ll be interesting to see if Indiana considers cutting costs elsewhere. What’s less interesting for big-man shoppers, though, is that it doesn’t seem like Haliburton’s injury will push Turner out of the only NBA home he’s ever known. Prediction: Turner re-signs with the Pacers for five years and $155 million,”
—Zach Buckley, NBA Writer
Turner’s contribution to the Pacers has been significant over the years, even though his performance in the recent finals fell short of expectations. The team’s competitive outlook in the next season heavily relies on his presence, particularly with the absence of Haliburton affecting the backcourt’s strength.
Possible Roster Changes Following Haliburton’s Injury
With Haliburton sidelined for the upcoming season, the Pacers may consider adjusting their roster to balance their lineup and salary commitments. The injury creates a gap in the team’s offensive and defensive strategies, increasing the importance of retaining seasoned players like Turner who can stabilize the frontcourt. While the team might not be realistic contenders for the championship next season, they are still positioned to compete for a playoff berth.
Indiana’s ability to navigate the offseason will be closely watched, as the management evaluates which players to move and where to allocate resources to maintain competitiveness while preparing for Haliburton’s eventual return.